Humberside Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) is taking part in the National Fire Chiefs Council’s (NFCC) "Ready Willing and Able" campaign which launched today and will show how fire and rescue services in the UK are going the extra mile to protect and support their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Firefighters and support staff across the Humber region will be sharing stories and videos on social media and on the HFRS website about how they’re using their wide range of skills to provide community reassurance and practical assistance in response to the national crisis.
As well as continuing to respond to emergency calls, the NFCC has agreed with the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), and Fire and Rescue Employers that Fire Services will work with organisations such as Local Resilience Forums (LRFs) and voluntary groups to deliver food and medicines, as well as supporting local health partners.
HFRS Chief Fire Officer Chris Blacksell said:
“We are Ready, Willing and Able to do all we can to minimise the impact of COVID-19 and help support people here in Hull, East Riding and Northern Lincolnshire.
"As part of our work with the Humber LRF, our officers are co-ordinating vital deliveries and distribution of protective supplies (PPE) for all of our partner agencies. Operational crews are helping businesses through these difficult times, whilst a dozen firefighters have volunteered to help our colleagues at Yorkshire Ambulance Service by driving ambulances across the county. Our Community Safety Advocates are delivering food and supplies to the most vulnerable around the region.
"I am incredibly proud of all of our staff who are proving themselves both flexible and resilient during these unprecedented times."
Roy Wilsher, Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council, said:
“Fire and Rescue services across the UK are renowned for responding professionally to the unexpected and this national crisis is no different.
"We are very proud of crews for stepping forward, using their wide-range of capabilities and skills to ensure community reassurance and support, while continuing to respond to emergencies, during COVID-19.
“The commitment to their communities during this critical time is a reflection of their continued humanity and care."
The additional work taken on by firefighters will be temporary to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, initially in place for two months.
The NFCC’s Ready Willing Able campaign is being rolled out by HFRS from today via their website and social media channels using #ReadyWillingAble